Dinosaurs & Chinese Artefacts

Today started with a beautiful blue sky day - which we were under the impression doesn't happen often in the UK. We started by visiting the Natural History Museum - Vela decided it wasn't her thing so left Nathan alone to look at dusty old bones.

The Natural History Museum was very cool, with some awesome displays of blue whales, saber toothed cats, and extinct species of elephants/mammoths. But definitely the best area was the dinosaurs. Some very informative displays, cool fossils and recreations on display and the crowning jewel of a VERY realistic animatronic T-Rex.

While Nathan was busy looking at fossils, Vela visited the Albert & Victoria museum. She was quite surprised to find a couple of important Chinese treasures on display. Of particular importance were an imperial throne and an Emperor's robe. Both of these items were likely taken from the old Summer Palace in Beijing when China was invaded. Vela was a little disappointed to see that the Emperor's robe was not given pride of place, and felt that it would be better displayed and honoured back home in China. At the same time, it was a good opportunity to appreciate these items without the massive crowds they would draw in China.

After we were finished checking out the museum's, we headed over to Notting Hill, where they have a street market every Friday. There were some awesome handmade goods, including these little soft toys made from ox hair. There was also a wide range of second hand clothing, street food, vintage cameras, and old knick knacks. Towards the far end of the street it started to feel a bit like an inorganic collection with some old electronics and furniture, so we left and went for a walk through Hyde Park. We saw a big group of squirrels hanging out under the trees, but their fun was spoiled when a little French bulldog chased them back into the trees.

We finished our day with a meal at a local Malaysian restaurant and putting into place a bit more planning for the end of our trip.Read more